Tourism Impact Recognized as Review of Alcohol Sales Ban is Proposed
PUBLISHED: 11 Feb 2025 at 16:06
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has initiated a review of the longstanding ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages from 2 PM to 5 PM in response to business group pleas for regulation relief to enhance tourism efforts.
Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub confirmed that the Prime Minister has called for a review of this 53-year-old rule to align it with contemporary circumstances.
This ban, which originated from a decree imposed by the Thanom Kittikachorn regime in 1972 to address in-office drinking, remains in effect as it falls outside the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act and has never been overturned.
Numerous businesses are advocating for lifting this outdated prohibition, coinciding with ongoing discussions to amend the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, with draft amendments already receiving approval for further readings in the House of Representatives.
During a recent cabinet meeting, Ms. Paetongtarn acknowledged the concerns from various business sectors, indicating that the current restrictions on alcohol sales hinder efforts to stimulate the economy.
She requested relevant agencies to examine not only the afternoon sales ban but also restrictions on alcohol sales during Buddhist holy days and their impact on tourism.
Additionally, current laws prohibit alcohol sales on election days from the evening prior to polling.
The Prime Minister has tasked authorities with reviewing restrictions on electronic sales of alcohol, zoning laws related to alcohol distribution, and regulations enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with any rules established since 1972.
While emphasizing the importance of ensuring safety and preventing access to alcohol for young individuals, Ms. Paetongtarn stated that controls must be reinforced to dictate who is allowed to sell alcohol. “Not everyone will be able to sell it when [sales of alcoholic beverages] are permitted. This is a key point we must stress,” she elaborated.
In response to queries about the potential for allowing alcohol sales on Buddhist holy days, Ms. Paetongtarn conveyed that she would request a government panel to consider the issue, acknowledging that many tourists are typically unaware of local holy days, which could significantly affect tourism.
“This year is branded as the Year of Tourism. Therefore, this matter demands reevaluation,” she stated, referencing the government’s recent campaign to promote the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025.
